2006 George Steinbrenner Signed Letter to Artist Richard Simon with Barry Halper Content

One-page typed letter, dated May 17, 2006, signed by George M. Steinbrenner III, longtime principal owner of the New York Yankees. In his letter, on official New York Yankees letterhead, Steinbrenner writes to noted baseball artist Richard Stephen Simon, where he professes his sadness at the recent passing of famed baseball collector Barry Halper, who was both his business partner and close friend. In full:

Dear Mr. Simon: Every so often I receive a letter that touches me deeply in all the right places. Yours was such a letter and your inclusion of the Yankees Legends along with several of your favorite studies - well, what can I say beyond thank you very much. It's hard to believe that 23 years have past since your doing "50 Years of Yankee All-Stars" - just where has the time gone? Although I would like to take the credit for your success, I cannot rightfully do so, for it is your remarkable talent that has made you so very successful. Had it not been the Yankees and baseball that introduced you to the world of sport, it surely would have been another franchise and another sport. I am very sorry to hear that you have been dealing with serious health issues of late and I sincerely hope that you will soon be able to put them behind you and continue "full throttle" with your remarkable work. I too miss Barry Halper. He was a great pal and a remarkable man who loved baseball and particularly the New York Yankees. I agree that Barry is looking down on you, smiling and thinking that he wants you to keep only "positive" thoughts. As do I. Again, thank you for your letter with its very kind words - and thank you for your unconditional loyalty to the New York Yankees and me. Best Regards, George Steinbrenner [signed].

Steinbrenner's signature has been rendered in blue felt-tip pen and grades "10." Steinbrenner was principal owner of the Yankees from 1973 until his death in 2010. During his tenure, the Yankees won eleven pennants and seven World Series. Steinbrenner was one of twelve candidates to appear on the 2011 ballot of the Baseball Hall of Fame Veteran's Committee. Although he was not elected, he remains a leading candidate for future enshrinement. The letter (7 x 9.5 inches) displays two horizontal mailing folds and is in apparent Near Mint condition. Matted and framed to total dimensions of 14 x 16.5 inches. LOA from James Spence/JSA. Reserve $200. Estimate (open). SOLD FOR $411

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